Sam and Friends

TV show description:
The first television show produced by Jim Henson, five minute episodes of this program aired twice daily on WRC-TV, an NBC affiliate in Washington, DC. Episodes are essentially short skits with no continuing storylines.

In early installments particularly, the segments are often comprised of various puppet characters lip-syncing to songs and comedy albums by artists like Spike Jones, Stan Freberg, Bob and Ray, and Louis Prima. Other installments employ sight gags, comedy bits, and use of early television optical effects.

The title character, Sam, has a ventriloquist dummy-style design and is a human-like character. Of the only surviving clip featuring Sam, he does not speak and merely lip-synchs to “Old Black Magic.” Kermit, who had not yet become a frog, was used far more frequently and played a variety of roles, often wearing a wig and becoming the victim in various skits.

Series Finale

Episode (Unknown)First aired: December 15, 1961.

What happened next?

The show has not been revived or remade. Though only Kermit went on to be used in future Muppet projects, the series provided Henson an opportunity to experiment with television, get into commercials, and develop his brand of humor.